The Phoenix (5-3) overcame an early 8-0 deficit and climbed back to take the lead on a Carrington Love 3-pointer, which sparked a 10-0 run to make the score 60-52 midway through the second half.

South Dakota (3-6) cut the lead to three multiple times, but couldn't pull any closer. A Trey Norris three-point play made the score 86-83 with 19 seconds left, but Green Bay countered with a Greg Mays dunk. Sykes hit a free throw following a Brandon Bos layup for the final margin.